Growing up, dreaming big was never a question for me. Whether it was soccer or lacrosse, I always aimed to compete at the highest level. In high school, I was recruited to play for a top-20 lacrosse program, and I knew my dream was within reach—until external factors like money, politics, and unreliable people derailed it. Instead of succumbing to disappointment, I chose to take control of my future. As an athlete, I believe that hard work and overcoming adversity are what truly matter. As my passion for lacrosse slowly faded, my self-esteem began to take a hit. Although I was never formally diagnosed with depression, looking back, I can see how my daily tears reflected the weight of what I perceived as a 'failure' that consumed me from the inside. I wasn’t ready to give up entirely, so I decided to give college soccer one final chance. Fortunately, it turned out that soccer was the path I was meant to follow all along.

During my time playing college soccer, I faced numerous challenges along the way. After my sophomore year, which followed a COVID-impacted freshman year with limited playtime, I decided to take a new approach. I focused on developing myself both physically and mentally. I pushed myself off the field by completing the “75 Hard Challenge,” which involved changing my eating habits, reading daily, staying hydrated, and adopting a new mindset toward exercise. These habits—far beyond the challenge itself—helped shape me into a Whole Athlete. Not long after, my playing career began to take off. Completing the 75 days didn’t mark the end of my journey; it was just the beginning of a life committed to health, growth, and mental strength.

While I focused on building strength externally, I also came to understand that it was okay to not always be okay. The pressure to perform, dissatisfaction with my body, and the many other factors that could quickly take a toll on my mental health were just as important to address as the physical aspects. There are many components that are neglected when we hear the term athlete, which is why I created the Whole Athlete.

At the Whole Athlete, we strive to be personable to each individual because at the end of the day each athlete is not comparable. Each athlete has their own journey, their own strengths and weakness, and their own way of learning. But, we can all grow, try new things, and be the best versions of ourselves.